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June 21, 2006
  
Topsy Turvy

Here’s your updated standings after last night…

Mets- 44-26
Phillies- 35-36
Marlins- 30-37
Nationals- 32-41
Braves- 30-41

Yep, the Braves are 30-41. A whole 14 and a half games out of first place. And part of me feels a little cheated.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I take as much pleasure watching the Braves flounder this year as any Met fan, but in my dreams about the Braves streak ending, I had always seen a bitter fight to the end of the season, ending with the Mets outlasting the Braves, finally taking them down and starting them into a downward spiral. I didn’t see a flat-out downward spiral.

Is this really the way this should end? The Braves nowhere close to the top of the NL East? The Mets fighting it out with the Phillies (the Phils have a run in them somewhere I think), with the Braves nowhere to be found? Am I counting out the Braves for good? No, just because I can’t until I see them not win the title, but I just don’t see how they can turn it around.

And now John Smoltz is talking about being willing to be traded if it is “best for the team”. Wait, John Smoltz might not be on the team that finally is dethroned from their spot? None of the big three will be a part of the team that finally lets go of its grip of the division title?

Like I said, I’m happy to see the Braves floundering and that it looks like someone else will win the division (which obviously looks like the good guys at the moment), but part of me wishes that they were right there with us, down to the wire and that it could all be decided in a midweek series in the last week of September with the Braves at Turner Field (it does exist, so I’m not making it up) where the Mets finally got rid of their Atlanta demons. Part of me wishes that we could defeat the Braves, not watch them struggle to not finish in last place.

But, then again, if we win a division title, I’m sure I will not care much about the details then.


75 Responses to “Topsy Turvy”

  1. Comment posted by fernz on June 21, 2006 at 12:35 am (#50315)

    why cant we just pick up smoltzy?? we’re not getting zito, the a’s might actually be in a pennat race…now that you bring up the braves fall, smoltz would be a great addition

  2. Comment posted by Andrew in Weston on June 21, 2006 at 12:48 am (#50316)

    I agree Fernz, I think Smoltz could be a good middle relief/innings eater/closer. That being said I cannot see the Braves trading with the Mets. And I have to think the Braves will want something for him, most likely more than he is worth.

    I agree with the article, it is slightly sad to not be able to dethrone the Braves while they are on the top. But I rather be slightly sad and see the Mets raise that Division banner than happy while seeing a tight race in August and September.

    Anyone think the Yankees will pick Smoltz up and try to turn him into the 2007 version of Small, Chacon or (gulp) Leiter? Just thinking.

  3. Comment posted by matt on June 21, 2006 at 12:50 am (#50317)

    i agree. how nice would it feel…bottom of the 9th, down a run, beltran on first, down outs, wright hitting a homer to clinch the NL east…it’s almost boring to watch the mets when they’re 9 games up…

  4. Comment posted by fernz on June 21, 2006 at 1:33 am (#50320)

    andrew, why dont you see the mets adding a guy like smoltz? He openly said he would agree to a trade, the braves r out of contention, (yes they are out of contention, im sick of saying “you cant count them out”)and hes not having an amazing year. What do you think we’d have to give up for him? It would cost a player and a good prospect, but not a milledge or pelfrey type. I mean if we offer to eat a bunch of his salary i dont see a problem.

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  6. Comment posted by MetsFanSince71 on June 21, 2006 at 1:39 am (#50322)

    I’ve always greatly admired Smoltz and I believe he’s still a big game winner (best post season record by a pitcher). But I cannot see how the Mets could possibly get him without being absolutely fleeced by John Schuerholz.

    By the way, I was at the game Tuesday night and the Mets are now 4-0 when I’m in attendance. So, if there’s a big game at Shea we need to win, just send me some tix…. :)

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  8. Comment posted by gategem on June 21, 2006 at 1:44 am (#50323)

    i agree. how nice would it feel…bottom of the 9th, down a run, beltran on first, down outs, wright hitting a homer to clinch the NL east…it’s almost boring to watch the mets when they’re 9 games up…

    You act like it’s a routine occurrence. Just relax and enjoy it. Believe me it was fun in ’86.

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  10. Comment posted by MetsFanSince71 on June 21, 2006 at 1:56 am (#50324)

    Andrew, I totally understand your point. I kinda wanted a two- or three-way battle in this division. But, it’s not just the Braves, the ENTIRE NL East seems to be mediocre (please don’t try to tell me that the recent streaks of the Nats and Fish really mean anything because I’m not buying it). Geez, everybody else is UNDER .500 now?! Incredible. I never in my wildest dreams thought that would be the case this late in June. In fact, I heard Bill Madden of the News comment that the whole NL is rather weak. I’m sure it’s his Yankee-fan way of dissing the Mets (ie, saying they’re merely winning in an “off” year). But you know what? He’s kind of hit the nail on the head about the league. The Mets are a terrific, well-balanced team regardless of how good (or bad) everyone else is, but IMHO, there’s really no team in the NL that scares me right now (yes, the Cardinals included). Nor is there a team that the Mets couldn’t beat in a crucial series. I really believe that. The AL, however, is a different story….

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  12. Comment posted by MetsFanSince71 on June 21, 2006 at 1:57 am (#50325)

    Just relax and enjoy it. Believe me it was fun in ’86.

    Right on, gategem! I lived through 86 and it was tremendous.

  13. Comment posted by argonbunnies on June 21, 2006 at 2:01 am (#50326)

    Oh COME ON, why not get Chipper too?! Smoltz is a Brave and should finish his career a Brave. He has beaten us in big moments many times, I do not want him sharing in our parade. Nothing against him, I have a lot of respect for him, Larry, Giles, and even Remlinger — but keep them away from my Mets. If the Braves want to unload aging stars, let them talk to the Yanks. Or even better, trade all the longtime Braves to the Phillies so we can actually have a race against our old nemeses this year.

    I’m with Jeremy, watching the Braves beat themselves is nowhere near as much fun as beating them ourselves.

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  15. Comment posted by MetsFanSince71 on June 21, 2006 at 2:09 am (#50328)

    watching the Braves beat themselves is nowhere near as much fun as beating them ourselves.

    That’s true, argon. But there’s also a good deal of gratification in seeing all the “experts” who penciled the Braves in (again) finally proven wrong.

  16. Comment posted by argonbunnies on June 21, 2006 at 2:17 am (#50329)

    Right on, gategem! I lived through 86 and it was tremendous.

    Well, that would be my second choice after winning a hard-fought race: TOTAL DOMINATION. I’d take 108 wins. We’re gonna need to pick it up, though. :)

    Another thought, of course, is that if we approach the trade deadline with a 20-game division lead, we should look to re-configure our team with the playoffs in mind, which would traditionally mean loading up on dominant and/or proven pitchers. Personally, I can’t see a way to do this without sacrificing some of our young talent, so I’d be tempted to hold off…

  17. Comment posted by Benny Blanco from da Bronx on June 21, 2006 at 2:19 am (#50330)

    I have to disagree with what your saying…

    but in my dreams about the Braves streak ending, I had always seen a bitter fight to the end of the season, ending with the Met outlasting the Braves, finally taking them down and starting them into a downward spiral.

    Nah… this is better.

    I’m happy to see the Braves floundering and that it looks like someone else will win the division (which obviously looks like the good guys at the moment), but part of me wishes that they were right there with us, down to the wire and that it could all be decided in a midweek series in the last week of September with the Braves at Turner Field (it does exist, so I’m not making it up) where the Mets finally got rid of their Atlanta demons.

    No seriously… I really do prefer the way it is now.

    Part of me wishes that we could defeat the Braves, not watch them struggle to not finish in last place.

    I prefer DOMININANCE baby. Screw that movie like, Hollywood-esque ending. This is just SOOOOO much better.

    The confused look these guys have is awesome. I love it.
    But hey, I’m a ruthless kinda guy.

  18. Comment posted by fernz on June 21, 2006 at 2:21 am (#50331)

    i agree. how nice would it feel…bottom of the 9th, down a run, beltran on first, down outs, wright hitting a homer to clinch the NL east…it’s almost boring to watch the mets when they’re 9 games up…

    they could do that 9 games up too ya know

  19. Comment posted by Rashidi on June 21, 2006 at 3:05 am (#50333)

    I agree with no hollywood seasons. The Mets have been the underdog too many times. Besides, Mets/Braves down to the wire simply doesn’t have the hollywood magic of the Red Sox going from 3-0 down to break the curse. Hollywood events like that have a microscopic chance of going well. Everything has to go perfect in a close race. Let’s relax this year, Mets fans sure have earned the right to coast to the playoffs like a certain other NY team did for awhile.

  20. Comment posted by Rashidi on June 21, 2006 at 3:06 am (#50334)

    I’m sure every Yankee fan figured they’d prevail in game 7 and just cram it down Boston’s throat even more than had they just swept them.

    Better safe than sorry.

  21. Comment posted by Johnny Cakes on June 21, 2006 at 7:50 am (#50341)

    GATZARE ZAMBRANO!!!! Little message to you boys who feel cheated…DON’T KICK THE GIFT HORSE IN THE MOUTH. The Braves have had our number for 14 years. Its relaxing to know that we can’t blow our shot at the playoffs by walking in the winning run in the 9th inning the way we did years ago. Kenny Rogers anyone?

    As for Smoltzie, there is no need for that right now. I realize that we could always use another good starter but Smoltz has clearly said that he does not want to be a closer or reliever. If we were to make any more, Hudson or Willis are the only people I would take right now.

    The Dude Abides

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  23. Comment posted by elliot on June 21, 2006 at 8:06 am (#50343)

    You don’t like the Mets winning in a cake-walk? What’s the matter with you guys??? Are you secretly a bunch of self-loathing neurotics who can’t handle success? Is this some kind of identity crisis? I mean, come ON! This is what we have been waiting and hoping for. The Mets are a winning team. Say that to yourself a few times, and enjoy it!!!

    Plus - there’s still plenty of tension. I’m liking the way things are going, but all that I’m sure of right now is that the Mets will be in first place on July first. The Mets are one awful week away from having their division lead reduced to four or five games. I don’t think that it will happen, but there’s a reason that we actually play these games, you know.

    How about this? If you are so certain that the Mets own the division, and the post-season is too far away to worry about, here are some things to root for in the meantime.

    o Reyes to lead the majors in steals, and be the all-time Met single-season leader in stolen bases.
    o Wright to finish the season batting .333. For that matter, how about rooting for Wright to be the MVP?
    o Beltran to bat .300 and hit 40 homers (and also maybe, perhaps be the MVP).
    o Beltran or Delgado (or both!) to break the Met single season record for home runs.
    o Milledge to stay in the big and be rookie of the year.
    o Soler to prove himself as a strong, consistent pitcher.
    o Bannister to come back and threaten Trachsel (or perhaps El Duque) for his starting spot.
    o Julio Franco to set even more records as “oldest player ever to…”
    o Gold Glove for Reyes.

    Come on, boys and girls - have fun!

  24. Comment posted by dd on June 21, 2006 at 8:14 am (#50344)

    I have no desire to see John Smoltz in a Mets uni, as great a player as he has been. It’s already tough enough on my world view, cheering Tom Glavine every fifth day! Adding Smoltz to the Mets team would be like leaving the Church or something.

    Marcus Giles, on the other hand; he’s fairly young, he would constitute a real upgrade, and the Braves supposedly want to move him.

    The only thing I can imagine stopping that train would be the Braves’ reluctance to deal with the Mets. Well, that and what the Braves would want in return; but supply and demand are in place.

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  26. Comment posted by MetsFanSince71 on June 21, 2006 at 8:20 am (#50345)

    Excellent post, Elliot. There really are so many intriguing individual stories to watch on this team. Yes! Let’s enjoy the ride and watch the rest of the division struggle!

    Plus, what hasn’t been mentioned in this thread is how many times the Skankees are now getting pushed off the back pages.

  27. Comment posted by Randy on June 21, 2006 at 8:25 am (#50346)

    Incredible…only Met fans could complain about being 9 1/2 up. This happens about once every twenty years, so shut up and enjoy it.

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  29. Comment posted by MetsFanSince71 on June 21, 2006 at 8:38 am (#50348)

    I found this stat to be pretty Amazin’….

    in games where Wright has gone deep this season, the Mets hold a 12-1 record.

    Wow! If that’s not a solid case for MVP, what is??

  30. Comment posted by Paladin on June 21, 2006 at 8:39 am (#50349)

    Sometimes ya just can’t have yer cake and eat it too.

    Of course you might also want to remember that other famous saying:

    Be careful what you wish for, because it might just come true!

    So let’s be happy that it’s going down the way it is, and enjoy the ride. Hopefully Omar & Co. will continue to make all the right moves, and this club can remain very competitive for years to come. Because at this point, I am not satisfied with just ONE playoff appearance. Or just ONE World Series appearance. Or even just ONE World Series win.

    That’s what happened in the ’80s, and I wanted more! More from that ridiculously talented club, and I want more from this one as well. Sure it remains to be seen just how our starting rotation is gonna fare over the course of the next few seasons, but like I said, hopefully Omar & Co. will handle that accordingly so that our boys are in a position to remain atop the NL for quite some time.

    With or without Atlanta being competitive. I don’t care. Just as long as they win, and win consistently over the next few years.

  31. Comment posted by Mike on June 21, 2006 at 9:01 am (#50350)

    I agree it would be fun to see the Mets stymie the Braves at the finish line.

    But I also agree (with myself & anyone else who feels this way) that it would be a nightmare to see the Mets stymied — again — by the Braves at the finish line.

    Just thinking about it makes me wanna hurl.

    * * *

    As for ‘86, I can tell anyone not old enough to remember it that it was GLORIOUS. It was great even before the nail-biting post-season. There’s something amazing about watching your team annihilate its opposition. To any doubters, let me ask: you enjoy the 9-1 road trip? That’s what ‘86 was like.

    Incidentally, my Met’s post today includes some comments about games from the mid-80s (in addition to the standard silliness about ‘Stache, Keith, Milledge, and occasional straight geek analysis). Click on my name for more.

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  33. Comment posted by Tom P on June 21, 2006 at 9:06 am (#50351)

    I’m staring at my game 69 tix vs. Braves pondering an upside down world.

    I was hoping my son could fly back from Seattle so we could go watch the Mets finally smack the Braves down in a meaningful September game.

    And now it finally dawns on me that the Braves aren’t just down, they’re out. They’re dead. That September game is going to be meaningless. Even stranger, it’s not because of bad Atlanta luck or bad Atlanta injuries, things that might turn around. Atlanta is just bad, period.

    I can’t quite believe it. Part of me doesn’t want to say it out loud (don’t jinx a good thing!) but there it is.

    Ding dong, the witch is dead. The house has fallen on Atlanta, and there is only one little shoe sticking out. And even that little shoe is talking trade.

    I’d feel bad for Braves fans, if I only had a heart….

  34. Comment posted by ericfromdaboston on June 21, 2006 at 9:12 am (#50352)

    “Oh COME ON, why not get Chipper too?! Smoltz is a Brave and should finish his career a Brave. He has beaten us in big moments many times, I do not want him sharing in our parade. Nothing against him, I have a lot of respect for him, Larry, Giles, and even Remlinger — but keep them away from my Mets.”

    Exactly! Is there no shame here…….. wanting to go after Braves players?

    There’s so much talk about the need to go after another arm. Is this a need? The back end of the rotation seems to be pulling together well - especially now with Trax picking it up. Then you’ve got Bannister and Pelfrey in the wings. If there is a need, it hasn’t arisen yet.

  35. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 9:27 am (#50354)

    I agree with fans who love the fact that Atlanta is floundering so very badly. Why would Mets fans want for the Braves to loose their title with the dignity of putting up a fight? I find it better to sit back and watch with a smile on my face as they lose game afer game after game. I think that in order for Mets fans to reverse years of inferiority to Atlanta, they need to experience a season like this one where the fortunes of both clubs are completely reversed.

    If Atlanta did manage to put up fight this season then we’d all be sitting here panicing and waiting for the moment when the Braves catch take over while the Amazins come up short as they have time after time before. This way we can silence doubters from within and without and counter the inevitable crying of Braves fans who will no doubt cry that the Mets bought themselves the NL East title this year.

  36. Comment posted by Eli on June 21, 2006 at 9:40 am (#50355)

    Even if the Braves were willing to trade Smoltz to the Mets, who would you be willing to give up that they would take? Getting Smoltz a few years ago would have been great (then he would have given support to Glavine the way Delgado does to Beltran???) but I was under the impression that he his arm is dangling down the side of his body and he has about four throws left before it pops like Zambrano’s elbow. Well, maybe his arm could still handle relief innings.

    Someone asked somewhere about Milledge’s arm. I must admit that I am confused. I thought he had a great arm. And then after “the throw”, I thought it was greater. But then I also heard that he should be put in left as this more fits his arm. What gives?

  37. Comment posted by Brian on June 21, 2006 at 9:45 am (#50356)

    Incidentally, my Met’s post today includes some comments about games from the mid-80s (in addition to the standard silliness about ‘Stache, Keith, Milledge, and occasional straight geek analysis). Click on my name for more.

    Good stuff as always Mike

  38. Comment posted by Wdwrkr35 on June 21, 2006 at 10:38 am (#50361)

    Screw the Braves , screw smoltz, screw chipper and andrew jones. I hope they never win another game. The mets dont need their leftover trash. I want to see the Mets pound them into the earth for the remaining games we have left with them while they have those players. Thats when the Larry chant will be at its sweetest!!!!!!

  39. Comment posted by Ryan on June 21, 2006 at 10:43 am (#50362)

    jeremy,

    maybe you would feel better if the mets completely pummelled the braves in their remaining matchups this season. I know it would make me happy.

  40. Comment posted by Ed in Westchester on June 21, 2006 at 11:27 am (#50363)

    Someone asked somewhere about Milledge’s arm. I must admit that I am confused. I thought he had a great arm. And then after “the throw”, I thought it was greater. But then I also heard that he should be put in left as this more fits his arm. What gives?

    WIllie made a comment a week or so ago when he put Lastings in Right and Edny in left about how Edny has a better arm than Lastings.
    Considering he has 3 assists in 18 games, and each has been a strong throw, well, his arm might be better than WIllie thought.

  41. Comment posted by Jorge in Montana on June 21, 2006 at 11:31 am (#50364)

    You act like it’s a routine occurrence. Just relax and enjoy it. Believe me it was fun in ’86.

    No lie. It’s easy to let arrogance take over and feel like the Mets are just going to handed the crown. Going through 86 was awesome but there was some tension too, some “we have to win it all or I’ll puke tension”. After 86, I thought sweet, can’t wait to watch that again… well, I was 21 then and it still hasn’t happened again. This year, I am savoring every moment, no one, nor no team is guaranteed tomorrow so lets enjoy this team as they weave a great year.

    As for ‘86, I can tell anyone not old enough to remember it that it was GLORIOUS. It was great even before the nail-biting post-season. There’s something amazing about watching your team annihilate its opposition. To any doubters, let me ask: you enjoy the 9-1 road trip? That’s what ‘86 was like.

    Except in 1986 it was more of a “we’ll beat you, drink your beer and take your girlfriends”. This year, the confidence isn’t spilling over into that sheer arrogance, which is probably a good thing… I think in ‘86 the Mets had already been in about 3 or 4 bench clearing brawls at this point in the season. That being said, here I am in Montana and people are jumping on the bandwagon even here… And I was talking smack to a Yankees fan in the bar on Friday night, felt pretty damn good…

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  43. Comment posted by Bryan in Albany on June 21, 2006 at 11:37 am (#50365)

    why cant we just pick up smoltzy?? we’re not getting zito, the a’s might actually be in a pennat race…now that you bring up the braves fall, smoltz would be a great addition

    First, there is NO CHANCE the Braves trade Smoltz to the Mets. End of story. If the Braves were to trade ANYONE to the Mets this year, I think world peace would immediately follow, as would the end of poverty across the globe!

    Yep, the Braves are 30-41. A whole 14 and a half games out of first place.

    One thing I would like to point out however, is all of the individuals on this site posting how Bobby Cox was superior to Willie because he trusted the young guys and put them in, which led to the Division Title. Yes, the Braves won the division last year and the kids all contributed. But, could their performances this year be a product of not actually being ready last year? Aside from McCann, the Braves kids are doing horribly!

    Maybe Willie and Omar actually have an idea as to when a young player is ready and were correct last year in not rushing anyone. Just a thought…

    Either way, I’m lovin’ the lead and hope the Mets can make it 20 games over second place!

  44. Comment posted by Joe A. on June 21, 2006 at 11:47 am (#50366)

    First, there is NO CHANCE the Braves trade Smoltz to the Mets. End of story. If the Braves were to trade ANYONE to the Mets this year, I think world peace would immediately follow, as would the end of poverty across the globe!

    I don’t get it - why would the Braves not be willing to trade with the Mets? They traded Millwood to the Phils a couple of years ago and the Phils were their main competition in the division. I honestly don’t think John Schuerholtz gives a damn about the Mets. If he decides to trade Smoltz he is going to make the best deal for the Braves. Period.

    If I were Schuerholtz I think I would actually prefer trading within the division - after all, he is one of the best GM’s in the game - he knows he is probably going to get the best of whoever he deals with, so wouldn’t it be more fun and better for the Braves to rip off someone in your own division?

  45. Comment posted by Joe A. on June 21, 2006 at 11:50 am (#50367)

    I forget to mention that I want nothing to do with Smoltz or any other player from the Braves (or from the Yankees). I still can’t stand Glavine and every time he pitches I root for the Mets to win but for Glavine to get a ND. Nothing would make me happier than seeing Glavine re-sign withthe Braves next year and get shelled, then retire with 299 wins.

  46. Comment posted by Ed in Westchester on June 21, 2006 at 12:00 pm (#50368)

    I forget to mention that I want nothing to do with Smoltz or any other player from the Braves (or from the Yankees). I still can’t stand Glavine and every time he pitches I root for the Mets to win but for Glavine to get a ND.

    Release the hate Joe A.
    Glavine is a Met now.

  47. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 12:01 pm (#50369)

    During the “Inside Pitch” segment, Gammons mentioned that the Mets want to trade for Devil Rays infielder Julio Lugo but are not willing to give up Aaron Heilman to get Lugo.

    I read that Tampa Bay’s front office is high on Heath Bell. Would you trade Bell for Lugo? If so, is Lugo worth another peice in that deal…

  48. Comment posted by chris in ga on June 21, 2006 at 12:05 pm (#50371)

    I couldn’t find it online but in the Atlanta journal constitution, where the political carton would usually be, their was a cartoon with Cox talking to the Brave in the Dugout. He said “way to stay upbeat after today’s loss.” A player replies “coach, we haven’t played the game yet.”

    No one has talked any crap to me when I wear my Mets hat. I don’t get weird looks either when I wear my David Wright jersey out of the house.

    The radio call in shows are funny. I’ve heard the complaints from my fellow geeks up north about theradio hosts sometimes being to bias against a team or to critical. Well here, especially the 2 guys on the post game call in show, they are clueless. Alot of people point towards a lack of leadership with the Braves, especially with no Franco this year. Most of the calls are related towards that. But the host keep telling people that Julio Franco wasn’t a leader b/c he hardly played. The Braves have said so themselves that they miss this guy because of what he brought to the clubuhouse but the radio guys don’t see it that way. They can’t talk critical of the Braves I guess. Also, the fans are stupid. They think that Renteria was acquired via a Furcal trade. I’ve heard it a few times. “How can we trade Furcal and Marte for Renteria?” The people that are getting the blame in Atlanta by their fans are Roger Mcdowell, Tim Hudson, Andruw Jones, LeftField, Firstbase, Reitsma & Renteria has gotten alot of slack.

    The funniest thing is how they talk about Brian Jordan. They talk about him like we talked about Ice last yr.

  49. Comment posted by Joe A. on June 21, 2006 at 12:08 pm (#50373)

    Release the hate Joe A.
    Glavine is a Met now.

    Glavine will never be Met - he is a Brave wearing a Mets uniform.

    Would you trade Bell for Lugo?

    I assme that is a joke. I would trade Bell for a good ham sandwhich. Its going to take a lot to get Lugo - definitely a lot more than Bell. Remember, TB wanted Milledge for Lugo last year, then wanted Andy Marte for him during the offseason. The price should be coming down since Lugo’s a free agent at the end of the year, but its not coming that far down. I think it is going to take Bannister and Bell to get a deal done for Lugo. Not sure how I feel about that one - I like Bannister.

  50. Comment posted by Brian on June 21, 2006 at 12:11 pm (#50374)

    I don’t get it - why would the Braves not be willing to trade with the Mets? They traded Millwood to the Phils a couple of years ago and the Phils were their main competition in the division.

    It wasn’t a midseason trade to a divisional team with a recent history of animosity (that spelled right?), but the trade of a pitcher they didn’t want to pay huge arbitration bump to (stupid, cheap AOL\TimeWarner morons) for a good catcher whom they traded for so-so releivers once they found another catcher who was even cheaper and is putting up comprabale to better numbers.
    http://www.baseball-reference.com/m/millwke01.shtml#TRANS
    http://www.sportsline.com/mlb/headtohead/player-matchup

  51. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 12:12 pm (#50375)

    I would trade Bell for a good ham sandwhich.

    LMAO! Don’t get me started on this one Joe, there are alot of people who really believe in Bell’s ability to be a servicible middle reliever. I like Bannister too, but the Mets need a decent 2nd hitter type, who can fill in 2nd base. I like Valentin’s job so far, but he will slump and his range at 2nd is a weak

  52. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 12:15 pm (#50376)

    I would trade Bell for a good ham sandwhich.

    I’m still laughing my @ss off …..

  53. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 12:20 pm (#50377)

    Meanwhile, according to the LA Times, the drums in Los Angeles are starting to beat around the inevitable promotion of Angels 2B Howie Kendrick, leaving many to believe that Adam Kennedy will be traded sooner than later…

    In 220 at-bats for the Angels, Kennedy is batting .264 with two HR and 27 RBI, 40 strike outs and 17 walks, along with six errors while starting only at second base…

    Kennedy is due $3.5 million this season, and will be a free-agent at the end of the year…

    Another option….what would u include in a trade for Kennedy? Bell and who else for Kennedy and a ham sandwhich?

  54. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 12:26 pm (#50378)

    According to a team press release, former Mets OF Darryl Strawberry will be back in a Yankee uniform on June 24 taking part in the organization’s 60h Annual Old-Timers’ Day…

    Darryl Straberry is such a NY sports whore. He appeared earlier in ST to promote the 2oth anniversary of the 86 championship club and now he is going to dawn pinstripesat a yankee oldtimers game. I think he’d eat a worm of the floor if you paid him 5 dollars…

  55. Comment posted by Mike on June 21, 2006 at 12:31 pm (#50379)

    I think he’d eat a worm of the floor if you paid him 5 dollars…

    Hey, he’s got habits to support.

  56. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 12:36 pm (#50380)

    Hey, he’s got habits to support.

    `

    LMAO! Man, everyone is in such a comic mood today!

  57. Comment posted by robert griffin on June 21, 2006 at 12:52 pm (#50381)

    Naw, I prefer Hudson over Smotlz right now. Hudson is clearly pitching the best on that staff.

  58. Gravatar
  59. Comment posted by Bryan in Albany on June 21, 2006 at 12:53 pm (#50382)

    It wasn’t a midseason trade to a divisional team with a recent history of animosity (that spelled right?), but the trade of a pitcher they didn’t want to pay huge arbitration bump to (stupid, cheap AOL\TimeWarner morons) for a good catcher whom they traded for so-so releivers once they found another catcher who was even cheaper and is putting up comprabale to better numbers.

    Couldn’t have said it better myself. Nice post, Brian.

    Another option….what would u include in a trade for Kennedy? Bell and who else for Kennedy and a ham sandwhich?

    I read that Tampa Bay’s front office is high on Heath Bell. Would you trade Bell for Lugo? If so, is Lugo worth another peice in that deal…

    Neither one of these guys really does it for me (Kennedy stats/Lugo stats). Valentin has a higher OPS than both of them and his zone rating isn’t that much worse than either of them. Not to mention he is making more than $2 million less than either one and won’t cost any prospects.

    If neither one of these guys is really a significant difference over Valentin, why make a change at all? Wow! I didn’t think I’d ever be supporting the Stach!

  60. Comment posted by Brian on June 21, 2006 at 12:53 pm (#50383)

    I think he’d eat a worm of the floor if you paid him 5 dollars…

    Begs the question - what would he do for a ham sandwich

  61. Comment posted by Mike on June 21, 2006 at 1:00 pm (#50384)

    Begs the question - what would [Darryl] do for a ham sandwich

    Hmmm. If “ham sandwich” is some sorta new fangled euphamism for “hit of crack,” there’s simply no limit.

  62. Comment posted by Brian on June 21, 2006 at 1:16 pm (#50385)

    529. Dirk Nowitzki didn’t foul Dwyane Wade…Lastings Milledge did.

    Haha

  63. Comment posted by ajsmith on June 21, 2006 at 1:19 pm (#50386)

    Just wanted to note this, from today’s NY Post. I’ll probably re-post it later on the game chat because it’s worth repeating:

    Reyes is on pace for 74 extra-base hits; Derek Jeter’s career-high is 70.

    Let that sink in a moment. The Mets, if all goes well, will have the best left side of the infield in baseball for the next 8-10 years.

  64. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 1:24 pm (#50387)

    Seriously, does anyone here feel that Valentin simply will not hold up over at 2nd base nthis season? I know that neither Kennedy nor Lugo are special by any stretch, but this club does need to fill a 2nd base spot that has basically been vacant since Edgardo Alfonzo left NY years ago.

  65. Comment posted by Mike on June 21, 2006 at 1:29 pm (#50388)

    AJ-

    Bears repeating for sure. I know Jeter’s never been much of an XBH threat, except in ‘99, but that’s an amazing stat.

    Ramon-

    does anyone here feel that Valentin simply will not hold up over at 2nd base nthis season? I know that neither Kennedy nor Lugo are special by any stretch, but this club does need to fill a 2nd base spot that has basically been vacant since Edgardo Alfonzo left NY years ago.

    Relax. Between Milledge, Marrero, and Darren Oliver I’m sure we’ve got someone who can turn the DP.

  66. Comment posted by Ed in Westchester on June 21, 2006 at 1:44 pm (#50389)

    Hey, he’s got habits to support.

    *spits soda through nose*

    Holy Crap!
    Hey, he even played with Homer Simpson in a charity Softball game. Of course, Mr. Burns pinch hit for him when a lefty came in, despite like 8 HR’s in the game.

  67. Comment posted by sweetlew on June 21, 2006 at 1:57 pm (#50390)

    Yep, the Braves are 30-41. A whole 14 and a half games out of first place. And part of me feels a little cheated.

    Now, don’t get me wrong. I take as much pleasure watching the Braves flounder this year as any Met fan, but in my dreams about the Braves streak ending, I had always seen a bitter fight to the end of the season, ending with the Mets outlasting the Braves, finally taking them down and starting them into a downward spiral. I didn’t see a flat-out downward spiral.

    I don’t know Jeremy…Maybe it is because you, Eric and Matt all picked the Braves to win the NL East.

    That is actually a pretty funny read in retrospect!

    Some gems mined from the comments:

    MetsFanSince71 said:

    I wouldn’t be one bit surprised if Oliver actually does make a resurgence. Remember, RoHernandez also seemed like a very scary idea around this time last year!

    MrJ chimed in:

    Admitted long-shot but not impossible NL MVP: Carlos Beltran…
    with 30/30 110rbi 120runs .310avg gold glove caliber CF

    Only problem there is MrJ was robbing Beltran of about 10 HRs and 15-20 RBIs.

    Of course sweetlew said:

    The Mets starting line-up is a lot better too. I will take Beltran-Delgado-Wright-Floyd over Renteria-Jones-Jones-Franceour ANY DAY.

    This doesn’t even discuss the loss of Mazzone, whose impact will be felt on the middle-tier pitchers who always succeeded in Atlanta (i.e. Jorge Sosa).

    I will say that not only will the Brave NOT WIN in NL East, they won’t make the play-offs!

  68. Comment posted by Ed in Westchester on June 21, 2006 at 2:01 pm (#50391)

    Seriously, does anyone here feel that Valentin simply will not hold up over at 2nd base nthis season? I know that neither Kennedy nor Lugo are special by any stretch, but this club does need to fill a 2nd base spot that has basically been vacant since Edgardo Alfonzo left NY years ago.

    Ramon, I agree with you. Valentin has been a nice story, but he is at best a stop gap. I would feel more comfortable with a natural second baseman (ruling out Lugo). However, I would prefer that good prospects not be included, as they are quite rare in the system now.

    Valentin has done well with the bat, and with the glove, but he has not playted full time in a couple of years. He is going to wear down. Even spelling him with Woodward is not enough rest.

    After the failed Matsui experiment, I would hope that using a transplanted SS at 2nd would be the furthest thing from Omar’s mind, unless it is someone who has played significant time at second in the past year or so.

  69. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 2:06 pm (#50392)

    This just in. I found this article at Newsday.

    Darryl Strawberry will be appearing at Fenway Park on the 27th of June to commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the “Darryl” taunts first chanted during the 1986 World Series between the New York Mets and the Boston Red Sox.

    When asked if why he would assist in commemorating such an embarrassing event, Strawberry replied, “Hey they offered me five bucks, a ham sandwich and some Dorito chips! I couldn’t turn down that kind of an offer.”

    Strawberry, who was part the 1986 championship Mets team that prevailed over the Red Sox in the classic seven game series, will appear at the pre-game ceremony in the first interleague series between the two clubs this season whereupon he will eat a worm out of Bill Buckner’s jockstrap and recieve a paddling from ten local area essay winners of the “Why I hate New York sports teams” contest.

    This appearence is one of many such scheduled events for Strawberry this year. He has already appeared at Mets Spring camp in Port St. Lucie to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the Mets last World Series championship, is scheduled to be back in a Yankee uniform on June 24 taking part in the organization’s 60h Annual Old-Timers’ Day, and is currently fielding offers from the Florida Penal league Hall of Fame for a public induction ceremony.

    Though some have criticized Strawberry for what seems to be an apparent attempt to exploit his status as a New York sports icon, he remains unabashed by the growing media scrutiny.

    “I’ve got habits , um, I mean kids to feed.”

  70. Comment posted by Ed in Westchester on June 21, 2006 at 2:12 pm (#50393)

    There is comedy, there is high comedy, and there is the post from Ramon # 50392.
    Bravo my friend, bravo!

  71. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 2:18 pm (#50394)

    Why Ed, I have no idea what you are talking about. This was a serious peice of sports journalism.

  72. Comment posted by Nick in Westchestah on June 21, 2006 at 2:26 pm (#50395)

    Hey Joe A., what’s up with the Anti-Glavine sentiments? Do we dislike Julio Franco as well?

    Up until recently, Glavine has been great for the Mets this season, and I’m certain he’ll bounce back. So he won’t go into the Hall of Fame wearing a Mets uniform. Big deal. Neither will their other staff ace, Pedro.

    Parhaps I’m a tad biased about Glavine. Forget silly man-crushes on younger players like Wright or Reyes. I’m just one Tom Glavine SNY commerical away from moving to Queens.

  73. Comment posted by sweetlew on June 21, 2006 at 2:27 pm (#50396)

    Priceless…Ramon…priceless….

  74. Comment posted by udamnwright on June 21, 2006 at 2:28 pm (#50397)

    Is it true that Doc and Darryl will be doing an autograph session during visiting hours on Sunday. Darryl will be paid in ham sandwiches and Doc wants smokes to avoid being a bitch.

  75. Comment posted by Brian on June 21, 2006 at 2:32 pm (#50398)

    Will Darryl be making any appearnces out West this summer, either LA or SF?

  76. Comment posted by Nick in Westchestah on June 21, 2006 at 2:53 pm (#50399)

    I hear he’ll be making a cameo at San Quentin sometime in the very near future. Its a long term engagement from what I’ve read.

  77. Comment posted by Ramon on June 21, 2006 at 2:56 pm (#50400)

    Will Darryl be making any appearnces out West this summer, either LA or SF?

    I hear he’ll be making a cameo at San Quentin sometime in the very near future. Its a long term engagement from what I’ve read.

    LMAO!

  78. Gravatar
  79. Comment posted by dptydwg420 on June 21, 2006 at 3:21 pm (#50402)

    Guys, I still can’t get over last nite’s SNY broadcast.

    Did anyone hear Keith and Gary going pedophile bonkers when the cameraman stopped n zoomed in on like an 8-year old girl eating a lollipop?

    It was like the 3rd innning or so.

    Besides Keith saying “Oh yea” and sounding all hot n bothered, Gary n Keith even added later “DONT BITE IT!”

    too funny, and kinda disturbing.

  80. Comment posted by Danny on June 21, 2006 at 3:41 pm (#50403)

    Did anyone hear Keith and Gary going pedophile bonkers when the cameraman stopped n zoomed in on like an 8-year old girl eating a lollipop?

    Yes, when Keith said, “I used to love those when I was young”, I was questioning what “those” meant.

    I just want to say Ramon, Straw was my favorite player growing up, I have a special little place in my heart for him, but that article that you “found” was freaking hysterical. Great stuff.

  81. Comment posted by Nick in Westchestah on June 21, 2006 at 3:48 pm (#50404)

    I don’t know which one of those two creeped me out more while talking about that girl with the lollipop. Sure Keith is a bit of a wild and crazy guy… But ever I saw Gary Cohen on SNY for the first time, I’m totally convinved he’s a pedarest. Great announcer, yes, but definitely a potential pedarest. And am I the only one who gets creeped out when the camera covers Keith and Gary in the booth, and whenever Keith says anything, Gary looks directly at the side of Keith’s face with that unsettling grin of his? No? Thats just me?

  82. Comment posted by Mike on June 21, 2006 at 3:59 pm (#50407)

    Holy Ham Sandwiches, Batman, we’ve got some funny stuff on MetsGeek today! Damn.

    Ramon-

    Kudos.

    Nick-

    Nice on the San Quentin comment.

    And everyone else-

    Keith & Cohen really have some sorta weird chemistry. Cohen has an evil grin for sure, and Keith is completely out of control when Darling’s not in the booth. Cohen can’t rein him in, and I’m not sure he wants to.

    Anyway, it’ll take a few more pedophile comments to add this to the keith Obsessions Files, but he’s combining a number of odd items. I’m not sure I even wanna hear him using “tumbling” or “level swing” when he gets all descriptive about lollipop sucking little girls.

  83. Gravatar
  84. Comment posted by dptydwg420 on June 21, 2006 at 4:30 pm (#50408)

    Anyway, it’ll take a few more pedophile comments to add this to the keith Obsessions Files, but he’s combining a number of odd items. I’m not sure I even wanna hear him using “tumbling” or “level swing” when he gets all descriptive about lollipop sucking little girls.

    hahahah, you deserve credit too Mike, funny stuff. I pray for Keith’s sake its the last we hear of little girls and what they like to suck on.

  85. Comment posted by Johnny Good Times on June 21, 2006 at 4:44 pm (#50409)

    And am I the only one who gets creeped out when the camera covers Keith and Gary in the booth, and whenever Keith says anything, Gary looks directly at the side of Keith’s face with that unsettling grin of his

    I couldn’t agree with you more - that is freakiest thing on TV. It looks like he has his hand on Keith’s thigh or he’s about lick Keith’s cheek or both. And the whole SNY booth looks like a dump. Moving to a new stadium or not, it’s beyond me why they wouldn’t put up an extra $15k to make the place presentable.

  86. Comment posted by Brian on June 21, 2006 at 4:52 pm (#50410)

    Did anyone hear Keith and Gary going pedophile bonkers when the cameraman stopped n zoomed in on like an 8-year old girl eating a lollipop?

    Too bad (or Thank God) it was Ron with Gary on Sunday, Father’s Day when they showed Gary’s kids in the stands with a teenage looking duagther holding up a “Happy Fathers Day Gary” sign

  87. Comment posted by Nick in Westchestah on June 21, 2006 at 6:01 pm (#50412)

    Ramon:

    You forgot to mention the song playing on the PA whenever Strawberry came to the plate:

    “I fought the Law” by The Clash… nycuk, nycuk, nycuk…

  88. Comment posted by hasan on June 21, 2006 at 6:24 pm (#50419)

    ugh man i couldnt care less if the Braves are 100 games back! somehow i dont think even that will wipe that smug off of Andruw Jone’s face.

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